I am so sorry about Bro Andrus passing.  He was a true man of God. Praying for the family.  I just wanted to tell you that he had a love for the smell of new leather.  He use to come to my husband's saddle shop to get just a piece of leather to place under his car seat, just because he said it smelled so good.  He was a Great friend and everyone will miss him. God bless you all.

My well-wishes for the loved ones of Pastor Andrus. I attended 1st Nazarene in the early 80's when my godparents would take me there (the Setliffe's). I have wonderful memories to this day of Pastor Andrus' mark he left on the soul of many, including me, through and by GOD's/YHVH's loving kindness in helping people receive HIS holy Word and knowledge thereof.  

Your very effective method of expository teaching and often with great and real emotion, I'll never forget. I'm welling up with tears remembering your powerful teaching. 

I have great confidence we'll all see you again, soon, Pastor Andrus! 

John David Anderson-Cooley (David Anderson)

John was larger than life in all he said and did. A giant influence on untold thousands and admired and respected by everyone who knew him.
God bless his wife, Loretta, and Hod bless his memory.

Reverend John Andrus was one of the dearest friends, Pastors and Mentors I have ever known. My name is Scott King, and I live in California, unable to make it in time for his funeral. 

One Sunday when my parents and I were unable to find a seat at our home church, First Presbyterian, my father said, "let's go visit where my Grandmother attended, Chattanooga First Church of the Nazarene." We arrived to see a very tall man with a California accent, teaching a sermon. I say teaching because John was an incredible teacher with a gift to hold your attention and engage the congregation. He might even call your name to ask a question during the sermon. 

John became great friends to my family but our love of old cars, traveling and collecting political memorabilia brought John and I together as close friends often traveling cross country to California and Washington DC with his son Tad. 

Often, one can see many flaws behind a facade when close to a public figure but I never witnessed anything but a good hearted, frugal man with an unshakable love for Christ, his country and a loyal friend. It was a running joke that he was "cheap" living on a preacher's wages and we even made a birthday video with that theme for him. He laughed the loudest as we presented the "documentary" interviewing many who knew him, even the Catholic Nuns at one of the nursing homes. John performed the funeral services of my father, mother, brother and dedicated my son Wolfgang. 

John was a man, among men. Through personal hardships, John never wavered in his Faith. John used to quote two things as a pastor performing a funeral; "Now they are in the hands of a loving and just God" and Edwin M. Stanton’s quote — “Now he belongs to the ages” — the words remembered by John Hay, who was Lincoln’s private secretary at the time and in the room when Lincoln died. 

Now, John, it is your turn to hear "Well done, my good and faithful Servant." I will miss you my dear friend until we meet again. Scott King

John Andrus and friend Scott King traveled often to political rallies and speeches such as for President Ronald Reagan, candidate Gary Hart, etc. out of a deep  interest in politics and collecting political memorabilia. On this day in 1985 John, Scott  and a couple of men from the First Church of the Nazarene went to hear President Reagan speak in Athens, Tennessee.

John Andrus and friend Scott King traveled often cross country with John's son Tad. On one of their many trips to Washington DC, California, Saint Louis, Dallas etc. they never missed an opportunity to go to historical sights or Car museums. John loved old cars but his favorite by far, was the 1955, '56 and '57 T-Bird, even though his 6'4 frame dwarfed the interior.

I was about 5 years old in 1962 when Bro. Andrus became my Pastor at First Church of the Nazarene.   My grandparents, W.J. And Grace Russell, took me, my mom, and five brothers there weekly.  I remember him coming to visit us in Harrison, Tennessee where we all lived on Hunter Road.   He was also my Aunt Una Poole’s pastor later on in years.  He was very special to my family.   Loving thoughts to his family.  

Lenae, Tammy & Tad, and Families,
I am saddened to hear of your loss. Bro. Andrus has touched my family in many ways- through First Church, performing marriages, and through his love and wise counsel. Please know that we are in Prayer for your comfort and in thanksgiving for a life so very well lived. 
-Anne Allen Hannah
 (formerly with Gil & Curt)

Brother Andrus married my wife and I some 47 years ago. He along with my family was a great supporter during my time in the Navy. I cherish his memory. His life was no small thing to me and I pray Gods comfort during these times.

My family and I are deeply sadden to learn of John’s passing. I had the pleasure of being his neighbor for 17 years. Over the years we had many “hedgerow” conversations with topics from theology to Texaco gas pumps. John exemplified the Christian life.  He and Loretta have always had an open door and were the utmost gracious hosts. My wife and I have the privilege of being the last couple he joined in holy union. We will cherish this memory always as a great honor. Our deepest condolences to Loretta and family. We have been truly blessed and enriched from John’s presence in our lives. A genuine, heart felt thank you, my friend.  

OBITUARY

Rev. John Robert Andrus

3 March, 1928 – 2 September, 2023

Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist - East Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services